RCMP NL reminds the public to be vigilant when buying merchandise online through social media, such as Facebook, or when responding to advertisements.
Crimes related to online sellers include selling counterfeit or stolen items, phishing for personal and banking information with the intent to commit fraud and accepting payments with no intention of providing what was advertised. If you are not familiar with a particular seller, search online to see if anyone has reported a bad experience. Exercise caution when asked to send a deposit to hold an item or to pay in advance for a purchase. Arrange to meet the buyer in a safe public location to complete the transaction.
If you are a victim of fraud or suspect you have been scammed, report it to your local detachment and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/fraud-escroquerie/merchandise-ma... or call 1-888-495-8501.